43North has been saying for years that “It’s Happening Here,” but the accelerator’s tagline seems resoundingly accurate as of late.
As the organization readies for the return of their biggest event of the year, 43North Finals, the team couldn’t help but reflect on the explosive growth of Buffalo’s startup ecosystem, and on a bigger scale – growth in Buffalo as a whole.
“As a region, I think it’s fair to say that we’re all feeling a lot of momentum, whether that’s in the startup space, population growth, the revival of Seneca One, or our beloved Buffalo Bills to name just a handful, there really is so much happening here,” said Maura Devlin, VP of marketing and PR at 43North. “We decided it all warranted an in-progress celebration and wanted to do something that would engage the community.”
The result was City Chatter, a new mural and piece of public art that the region could enjoy. Designed by 43North Creative Content Producer Tiffani Louw, the mural was recently installed at Buffalo Riverworks next to the entrance for the ice rink.
The 30’x15’ artwork has been thoughtfully curated to incorporate icons of Buffalo’s resurgence as well as trends in design. Elements like a pennant, which nods to the success of local entrepreneurship, line drawings of people who represent the community, the Tech Hub at Seneca One Tower, along with water and subtle leaves and snowflakes to celebrate the four seasons, are all present in this visual love letter to the Queen City.
“The large buffalo on the right is looking over the city to represent what’s behind the scenes. It’s that ever-present love for our community – that Buffalove,” said Louw. “City Chatter is for everyone and our hope is that each time you look at it, you find something new that speaks to you.”
A chance to win big
Visitors to the mural who take photos will be surprised to find that it offers more than meets the eye.
A QR code positioned just off center in the mural unlocks a landing page highlighting a host of prizes with details on how to enter for a chance to win. From cropped hoodies and T-shirts, a Buffalo Bills experience, and a private dinner by Chef Darian Brian, Buffalonians have the opportunity to win some awesome prizes and extravagant experiences.
“Buffalo loves murals and this is a mural that loves you back. But you have to come down and experience it to find out how. Head to Riverworks, take a pic, and tag us on social media for a chance to win some amazing prizes.” teased Justine Palkowski, content marketing manager at 43North. “Be sure to follow @forty3north on social media to stay in the know about what we’re giving away. You won’t want to miss out.”
43North’s marquee event, Finals is slated to make its return to Shea’s Theatre on Thursday, Oct.28. The event is the culmination of a months-long competition to select the next eight companies that will receive investments from 43North and get a chance to grow their business in Buffalo. Tickets to the Shark Tank-like event are free but space is limited. Free tickets are available at 43north.org.
It’s happening here, Buffalo.